Playing the Native American flute

Why I play my Native American style flutes

What a circuitous route to playing a hand crafted instrument in the style of a Native American flute! I started piano lessons when I was in third grade. This became one of my primary extracurricular activities and playing grew to be a big part of my life. I played the usual recitals and even became the church organist when I was in high school.

However, there was something missing from my musical experiences. I always needed music to help me make beautiful music… until now. When I discovered the Native American flute and flutes in the style of Native American flutes, I made a decision that I wanted to play this instrument from the musical reservoir within my own soul rather than sticking to music someone else had written.

It’s hard to describe in words what playing the flute is like for me. Typically when I perform in public, I have no idea what I’m going to play until I stand up, close my eyes and take a deep breath. Then I listen. Listen to what the flute wants to say that day. Sometimes the flute wants to play an active up-tempo almost Irish jig kind of tune, but more often, the flute wails a mournful and soulful melody. I think this is what strikes people’s hearts the most.

Playing the Native American flute or a flute in the style of a Native American flute can be that for you as well. Take a breath. Close your eyes. It’s time for your flute to sing.

Tell your flute story…

Stories interest me and our website visitors too! I’m interested in how you got your start playing a native flute. Did you hear someone else playing it? How did you learn? On what types of occasions do you play? Why do you continue playing a Native Indian flute or a flute in the tradition of a Native American flute? Do you have any tips to playing? What resources have enhanced your playing?

Tell us about playing the Native American flute by leaving a comment below…